20 of the Greatest Songs From 1990

In 1990, popular music was dominated by a mix of genres and sounds. From classic rock to new age, the charts were filled with a variety of songs that appealed to different people.

Here are 20 of the greatest hits from that year:

1. “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips

“Hold On” by Wilson Phillips is a song about staying strong and not giving up. The song charted at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for one week and was certified gold for sales of over 500,000 copies. A timeless classic, “Hold On” remains an inspirational anthem to this day.

2. “It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette

“It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette is a romantic ballad about the emotions felt after an intense breakup. The song was originally released in 1987 but was rewritten and re-released for the film Pretty Woman. The song peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it has since become a classic love song.

3. “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor

“Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor is a heartbreaking track about missing a lost love. It became an international success, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has become one of the most classic break-up songs in history.

4. “Play That Funky Music” by Vanilla Ice

Vanilla Ice’s rendition of Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” was also a huge hit. It peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has been sampled in many hip-hop songs. The song is an upbeat, fun track that still stands as one of the most memorable songs from 1990.

5. “Poison” by Bell Biv Devoe

“Poison” by Bell Biv Devoe is a classic R&B track about being tempted by a beautiful woman. It peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified platinum for selling over 1 million copies. With its iconic drum samples and infectious chorus, “Poison” is one of the most recognizable songs from 1990.

6. “Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” by Stevie B

“Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” by Stevie B is a ballad about undying love and devotion. It peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for four weeks and was certified gold for selling over 500 thousand copies. The song remains a timeless classic, and one of the most memorable songs of 1990.

7. “Vogue” by Madonna

Madonna’s “Vogue” is a dance song about expressing yourself through the art of dance. The track topped charts all over the world, topping charts in 30 countries and including the Billboard Hot 100.

The song was certified 2x platinum for selling over 2 million copies in the US alone. To this day, it remains one of Madonna’s most iconic songs.

8. “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” by Céline Dion

Céline Dion’s “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” is a romantic ballad about love and longing. The song charted at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the first French-Canadian to reach the top ten. It has become one of Dion’s most beloved songs, and it continues to be an inspirational song for many fans.

9. “Vision of Love” by Mariah Carey

“Vision of Love” by Mariah Carey is a soulful ballad about believing in true love. It peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified platinum for selling over one million copies in the US alone. The song was also nominated for three Grammys, but it only received one for “Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.”

10. “Freedom ’90” by George Michael

A true classic in the pop music world, “Freedom ’90” by George Michael is an empowering anthem about breaking free from one’s past.

The song peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a timeless classic. With its fun saxophone riffs and uplifting message, this song is sure to remain a fan favorite for years to come.

11. “Enjoy The Silence” by Depeche Mode

“Enjoy The Silence” by Depeche Mode is an upbeat synth-pop track about taking a break from the world and finding peace in silence.

Despite its somber lyrics, the song was still a hit, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s become one of the most iconic songs from the 1990s and remains one of Depeche Mode’s most successful singles.

12. “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice

A certified classic, “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice is an iconic rap track about standing out from the crowd. The song topped the charts in eight countries, including the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

It’s a catchy song that still continues to be popular today and remains one of the most iconic songs from 1990.

13. “U Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer

MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This” is an iconic rap track about being the best. It peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has been sampled in many hip-hop songs since its release. With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, it remains one of the most memorable songs from 1990.

14. “Gonna Make You Sweat” by C+C Music Factory

“Gonna Make You Sweat” by C+C Music Factory is a classic dance song about getting everyone on the dancefloor. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified 2x platinum for selling over 2 million copies in the US. With its funky bassline and catchy chorus, this song remains one of the most memorable from 1990.

15. “Groove Is In The Heart” by Deee-Lite

“Groove Is In The Heart” by Deee-Lite is an upbeat dance song about finding the groove in life. It peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a classic of the 1990s dance music scene. With its fun beats and catchy lyrics, this track remains one of the most popular songs from the era.

16. “The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground

One of the most iconic rap songs from the 1990s, “The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground, is a humorous track about getting down on the dancefloor.

The song peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified platinum for selling over one million copies in the US alone. With its funky beats and clever lyrics, this track is sure to get any party started.

17. “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC

“Thunderstruck” by AC/DC is a classic hard rock song about the power of thunder. It peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Rock Digital Songs chart and has since become an iconic staple of rock music. With its powerful guitar riffs and driving drums, this track is sure to get any heart pumping.

18. “Sadeness” by Enigma

“Sadeness” by Enigma is a mysterious dance track with Gregorian vocals and French whispers. The song peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become an iconic dance music classic. With its ethereal vocals and haunting atmosphere, this song is sure to leave any listener captivated.

19. “Someday” by Mariah Carey

A soulful ballad from Mariah Carey, “Someday” is a powerful track about being independent and someday hoping that her ex-lover will come back to want her.

It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified gold. With its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody, this song is sure to bring out the emotions

20. “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You” by Heart

A classic rock ballad, “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You” by Heart, is a powerful track about longing for love. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has been certified platinum for selling over one million copies in the US alone. With its heartfelt lyrics and soaring guitar solos, this song is sure to tug on the heartstrings of any listener.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the most iconic and memorable songs from 1990. With its mix of genres and styles, 1990 was a year of great music that is still enjoyed today. Whether you’re a fan of rock, rap, or dance music, there’s something for everyone in this list of classic 1990s songs.

Vogue Music Video Screenshot Featured Image (Bottom) by: Fair use, Link